North Daviess (3-6)

The Cougars face a familiar foe in Springs Valley, as North Daviess was defeated in French Lick 45-16 two weeks ago.

Last Friday, the Cougars needed an overtime, but beat Tecumseh 14-8 on the road, while the Blackhawks were involved in a low-scoring affair of their own, beating West Washington, 9-6.

“We really won last week in spite of ourselves,” said ND coach Scott Helms.

“We dominated the game on offense and defense, but the mistakes... Maybe this is just an example of things starting to go our way.

“Valley will be tough, hard hitting and aggressive,” said Helms.

“I think the game that we played two weeks ago may have been the only game of the year where we haven’t been competitive.”

Helms does not believe the upcoming game will have the look or feel of that loss.

“Our kids are going to play outstanding and I think Valley will have trouble trying to match it,” said Helms.

And as for the seven turnovers against Tecumseh, Helms was sure that will change as well.

“We will not make as many turnovers. The only thing I want to say about that is some of those turnovers may have been the result of our kids trying too hard and maybe pushing things, like trying for one more yard before turning the ball over.”

Helms continues to have a lot of praise for his defense.

“Our defense was just outstanding. Jon Wood had a career day on both sides of the ball and Mitch Wier had a great game,” said Helms. “Wes Potts had 18 solo tackles, which puts him just 15 off the single-season record. He actually has played one less game this year because of the cancellation.”

Helms also had praise for Ty Sipes, who he jokingly calls “Mr. Excitement.”

“You forget about him and then he does something that just knocks your socks off,” said Helms.